Can Anyone Carry a Gun in Florida?
Florida is known for its lenient gun laws, allowing residents and non-residents to carry firearms in certain circumstances. However, the process of obtaining a concealed carry permit is more complex than it seems. In this article, we’ll break down the rules and regulations surrounding gun ownership and carrying in Florida.
Who Can Carry a Gun in Florida?
Not everyone can carry a gun in Florida. To be eligible, you must:
- Be at least 21 years old (18 years old for active-duty military personnel and veterans)
- Be a resident of Florida or a non-resident who has a valid Florida concealed carry permit
- Not be a convicted felon or have a criminal record
- Not have a history of mental illness or be deemed mentally defective
- Not be subject to a restraining order or have a history of domestic violence
- Not have been dishonorably discharged from the military
Types of Gun Permits in Florida
Florida issues two types of gun permits:
- Concealed Carry Permit: This permit allows you to carry a concealed firearm in your vehicle, on your person, or in a bag or purse.
- Firearm Certificate: This permit is required to purchase a firearm from a licensed dealer. It does not allow you to carry a concealed firearm.
Concealed Carry Permit Requirements
To obtain a concealed carry permit in Florida, you must:
- Apply through the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS)
- Pay a $75 application fee
- Pass a background check
- Complete a firearms safety course
- Submit a set of fingerprints
Concealed Carry Permit Restrictions
Even with a concealed carry permit, there are restrictions on where you can carry a gun in Florida:
- Schools: You cannot carry a gun on school property, except for on-duty law enforcement officers
- Places of Worship: You cannot carry a gun in places of worship, except for on-duty law enforcement officers
- Government Buildings: You cannot carry a gun in government buildings, except for on-duty law enforcement officers
- Courthouses: You cannot carry a gun in courthouses, except for on-duty law enforcement officers
- Bars and Restaurants: You can carry a gun in bars and restaurants, but you must keep it concealed
Concealed Carry Permit Reciprocity
Florida has reciprocity agreements with several states, allowing you to carry a concealed firearm in those states. However, it’s essential to check the specific reciprocity agreements, as they may have different requirements or restrictions.
Table: Florida Concealed Carry Permit Reciprocity States
| State | Reciprocity |
|---|---|
| Alabama | Yes |
| Alaska | Yes |
| Arizona | Yes |
| Arkansas | Yes |
| Idaho | Yes |
| Indiana | Yes |
| Kentucky | Yes |
| Louisiana | Yes |
| Michigan | Yes |
| Mississippi | Yes |
| Missouri | Yes |
| Montana | Yes |
| New Hampshire | Yes |
| North Carolina | No |
| Ohio | Yes |
| Oklahoma | Yes |
| Pennsylvania | No |
| South Carolina | Yes |
| Tennessee | Yes |
| Texas | Yes |
| Utah | Yes |
| Virginia | No |
| West Virginia | Yes |
Open Carry in Florida
Florida is an "open carry" state, meaning you can carry an unloaded firearm in a holster or scabbard. However, there are restrictions on where you can open carry:
- Public Buildings: You cannot open carry in public buildings, except for on-duty law enforcement officers
- Schools: You cannot open carry on school property, except for on-duty law enforcement officers
- Places of Worship: You cannot open carry in places of worship, except for on-duty law enforcement officers
Conclusion
Carrying a gun in Florida requires careful consideration of the laws and regulations surrounding gun ownership and carrying. While anyone can carry a gun in Florida, there are specific requirements and restrictions that must be followed. It’s essential to stay informed about the laws and regulations in Florida to ensure you’re in compliance and exercising your Second Amendment rights responsibly.
